The Schalows have lived in Salisbury for over fifty years in a house drafted by a close family member, giving them ample time to perfect their two-acre corner lot, working with nature's whims. “Nature dictated the contours and suggested areas for patios, rest areas, and room to do sports activities,” said Al. “Existing trees were used to determine the location of wooded and mulched areas.” 

They filled these spaces accordingly with Al and Janice doing all of the work themselves. The yard prominently features a variety of vegetation, from local trees to deer-proof vegetable gardens. “[We] have always had gardens,” Al shared. “That is one of the first things we cleared for, and it was perfect that the sun traveled east to west over the garden area!” Cobblestone walls level the gardens while deer-proof fences protect them from wildlife. “The overall landscaping has been gradual and is adaptable to changes,” Al explained. For example, their putting green and sand traps are now used for pitching horseshoes.

These gardens aren’t just enjoyed by Al and Janice. “We wanted a home where children could play, neighbors could enjoy, and sharing vegetables in season was possible,” he said. “We have a small ‘nursery’ for sharing crape myrtles, English boxwoods, hollies, and other self-grown plants.” People love to congregate around their custom seating area beneath the holly tree. “The sitting area patio with cast iron benches is a favorite rest area,” he added. “We can watch birds, butterflies, and small animals.”

With Richmond’s temperamental climate in mind, the Schalows prioritized drainage, adding a dry creek with a bridge above it, terracing, and swales to prevent flooding. Their extensive labor in their yard has made Al and Janice quite the DIY landscaping experts. “Don't, if possible, let the care needed to maintain yard and garden get too far ahead of you,” they advised. “Cultivate other gardeners for new ideas, and read Stroll!”